Clinical Features

Laboratory Diagnosis

Infection with E. coli (including O157:H7) is diagnosed by detecting
the bacterium in the stool. Most laboratories that culture stool do
not test for E. coli O157:H7, so it is important to request
that the stool specimen be tested on sorbitol-MacConkey (SMAC) agar
for this organism. All persons who suddenly have diarrhea with blood
should get their stool tested for E. coli O157:H7.

Treatment

Most persons recover without antibiotics or other specific treatment
in 5-10 days. There is no evidence that antibiotics improve the course
of disease, and it is thought that treatment with some antibiotics may
precipitate kidney complications. Antidiarrheal agents, such as loperamide
(Imodium), should also be avoided.

Hemolytic uremic syndrome is a life-threatening condition usually
treated in an intensive care unit.

HUS develops in about 5% of reported E. coli O157:H7 cases, most
frequently in young children or the elderly.

Blood transfusions and kidney dialysis are often required. With
intensive care, the death rate for hemolytic uremic syndrome is
3%-5%.

Reporting Suspected Foodborne Illness
Please call the Minnesota Department of Health if you suspect you have a foodborne or waterborne illness. MDH will relay the necessary information to the appropriate local health authorities.

About Listeria
Listeriosis is a serious infection caused by eating food contaminated
with the bacterium Listeria monocytogenes. The disease affects
primarily pregnant women, newborns, and adults with weakened immune systems.

Chili or Soup Cook-Off Fundraisers
Beginning August 1, 2014, community-based nonprofit organizations, such as a service group or chamber of commerce, may hold chili or soup cook-offs without a food license if they meet certain criteria.

Protect others if you are experiencing diarrhea!
Anyone with a diarrheal illness should avoid swimming in public pools or lakes, sharing baths with others, and preparing food for others.
Young children (children in diapers) that are experiencing diarrhea should not be allowed to go swimming or attend daycare.